THE BOUNTIFUL BRAVES boys’ basketball team was honored with a national ranking trophy by MaxPreps, an online high school ranking website, last week at Bountiful High School. The Braves finished the season ranked No. 36 by the website and No. 1 in the state.
Courtesy photo

BOUNTIFUL – The Bountiful Braves boys’ basketball team had one of the best seasons ever in the 2013-2014 year.

Capped off by a 4A state championship, the Braves were recently honored by MaxPreps as one of the top 50 high schools in the country.

Last Tuesday’s ceremony was held to honor their achievements, and they were recognized by the members of MaxPreps as the No. 36-ranked team in the country.

MaxPreps is an online high school sports website owned by CBS.

“It’s a huge honor to be recognized nationally and it’s an exciting time for the kids and the community,” said Braves coach Mike Maxwell in a press release sent to the Clipper. “The kids worked hard and put a lot of hours in, and to be rewarded is truly special.”

The Braves finished the season with a 26-1 overall record. Their only loss came at a tournament in Las Vegas, a six point defeat by El Camino Real of California in the Tarkanian Classic.

“Working with the Army National Guard, MaxPreps is delighted to honor coach Maxwell and the Bountiful Braves as one of the nation’s elite high school basketball teams,” said president and founder of MaxPreps Andy Beal. “We congratulate the coach, players and Bountiful High School for a great season and earning the Army National Guard national ranking trophy.”

Utah Sgt. Jesse Barton presented Maxwell with the trophy. Several members of the state championship team were also present at the ceremony.

The team also received a banner for their stellar season.

“It is our privilege to honor and recognize nationally-ranked basketball teams with the Army National Guard national ranking trophy,” said Maj. Mark Burns, “which includes the Minuteman statue, a symbol of the National Guard.”